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Google could make color theming mandatory for Android 12 devices
- Google could soon make Android 12 dynamic theme support mandatory for all OEMs.
- OEMs that do not include support may not qualify for Google Mobile Services.
A feature once unique to the Google Pixel 6 series could soon be mandatory for all Android 12 devices.
According to Android Police, Google could demand that all Android 12 skins and builds include dynamic theme support — either a self-developed solution or Google’s own Monet framework — if they wish to qualify for Google Mobile Services (GMS). OEMs that do not comply may not be eligible for GMS, a core component necessary for the functionality of several Google apps.
Google’s Monet engine powers Android 12’s dynamic color theming system, extracting five tones from a wallpaper to use throughout the UI and within supported apps. It’s unclear if Google will require OEMs’ solutions to snag shades from the wallpaper directly, or if users can simply select a core color themselves.
Notably, some OEMs have already implemented their solutions. Samsung’s One UI 4 already includes a dynamic theming engine, while Xiaomi’s MIUI 13 is also bringing these changes. Several additional companies are also committed to bringing theming support to their skins.
Per the publication’s source, Google will confirm this requirement on March 14, giving OEMs a little over a month to implement a solution. While it may seem a strange stipulation for GMS qualification, it’s important that Google’s apps look and feel similar across all devices for users and the company alike.